Many of dementia's manifestations are now known to be manageable, and while the underlying illness is generally not curable, it might be modifiable with good dementia care. This report summarises evidence-based approaches to dementia and its symptoms, and makes it clear when the available evidence is not definitive. It itemises interventions that can transform the lives of people with dementia...
(Edited publisher abstract)
Many of dementia's manifestations are now known to be manageable, and while the underlying illness is generally not curable, it might be modifiable with good dementia care. This report summarises evidence-based approaches to dementia and its symptoms, and makes it clear when the available evidence is not definitive. It itemises interventions that can transform the lives of people with dementia and their families; maximising cognition, decreasing distressing associated symptoms, reducing crises, and improving quality of life. Timely diagnosis is a prerequisite to receiving these interventions. Pharmacological, psychological, environmental, and social interventions are included. If these interventions are implemented, people with dementia will have their cognition optimised and they will be less likely to be agitated, depressed, or have troublesome psychotic symptoms, and family carers will have reduced levels of anxiety and depression. It is also important to discuss future decision making as soon as possible with people with dementia and allow them to nominate someone to enact pre-specified wishes or make choices consistent with their values. The report suggests that overall there is good potential for prevention and, once someone develops dementia, for care to be high-quality, accessible, and give value to an underserved, growing population. Effective dementia prevention, intervention, and care could transform the future for society and vastly improve living and dying for individuals with dementia and their families. Acting now on what we already know can make this difference happen.
(Edited publisher abstract)
Subject terms:
dementia, prevention, cognitive impairment, personalisation, end of life care, telecare;